Mikel Arteta said Arsenal needed to be more “ruthless” and lamented that “luck” was not on their side as Manchester City took control of the Premier League title race with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Gunners in a frantic clash at the Etihad.
City still trail their title rivals by three points but if they win their game in hand over doomed Burnley in midweek, they will leapfrog the Gunners at the top with just five games remaining.
Perhaps predictably, Erling Haaland was the hero as he expertly swept home with 25 minutes remaining and Pep Guardiola's side clung on despite Arsenal hitting the woodwork on multiple occasions in the second half, through Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Magalhaes, and Kai Havertz rippling the roof of the net deep in injury time.
Although Gabriel was “lucky” to avoid a red card for pushing his head towards Haaland’s, Arteta reflected that the title race showdown could have gone either way. “I don't think there was any difference between the two teams,” he said. “There is an element of luck, whether the ball goes in or not. We were close, not close enough.”
Relive all the action from Man City v Arsenal, below
How Arsenal’s summer transfer business set up Premier League title race collapse
The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control of title race
Did Haaland just save Gabriel from a red card? Was this the moment the Gunners lost the title?
Premier League title race: Do Arsenal or Man City have the easier run-in?
Man City v Arsenal LIVE: Latest Premier League updates
- Man City beat Arsenal 2-1 in a thriller to put Premier League title race in their hands
- Mikel Arteta identifies missing piece of Arsenal's defeat: 'There is an element of luck'
- Erling Haaland admits he could have got Gabriel sent off for head-butt
- Miguel Delaney: The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control
- Richard Jolly: How Haaland inspired Man City to a massive momentum shift over Arsenal
- Rodri injury hands Man City huge concern ahead of Premier League run-in
How Arsenal’s summer transfer business set up Premier League title race collapse
14:37 , Richard JollyArsenal had heard the jibe, from fans of a Wigan team in the lower half of League One and a Wolves side marooned at the bottom of the Premier League. “Second again” may have become part of the banter-sphere. This time, though, the danger is that they end up second in a one-horse race.
How Arsenal’s summer transfer business set up Premier League title race collapse
Martin Odegaard insists Arsenal can still win the title despite Man City loss
12:00 , Jamie BraidwoodArsenal captain Martin Odegaard has issued a defiant rallying cry, insisting the Premier League title race remains "all to play for" despite rivals Manchester City seizing control.
The Gunners' 2-1 defeat by Pep Guardiola’s side at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday has left them on the cusp of relinquishing their long-held top spot.
Should City secure a victory against Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday, Arsenal’s 200-day reign at the summit would conclude with just five matches remaining.
Martin Odegaard insists Arsenal can still win the title despite Man City loss
Erling Haaland: My girlfriend is not happy with me ‘wrestling’ in Premier League
10:03 , Richard JollyErling Haaland described his battle with Gabriel, who ripped his shirt at one point, as wrestling as he said that his girlfriend is unhappy about the physical nature of matches.
“I think my shirt got a bit pulled,” he said. “I didn’t get the foul, this is the Premier League nowadays. It’s wrestling here and there. A lot of duels. A lot of scratches. Sometimes my missus is not so happy about this, it looks a bit wrong. But that’s the reality.”
Erling Haaland: My girlfriend is not happy with me ‘wrestling’ in Premier League
Declan Rice’s defiant three-word message in response to Arsenal’s faltering title bid
09:32 , Jamie BraidwoodDeclan Rice had a defiant response to Arsenal’s major setback in the Premier League title race after defeat to Man City.
Arsenal fell 2-1 to Man City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with Pep Guardiola’s side trimming the deficit to just three points, while also holding a game in hand.
And at full-time after succumbing to City in the crunch contest, Rice could be seen issuing a rallying cry to his teammates.
Rice could be seen shouting at those nearby, including Martin Odegaard: “It’s not done.”
Declan Rice’s defiant three-word message as Arsenal falter in title race
How Bernardo Silva’s last dance has transformed Man City
09:00 , Richard JollyRayan Cherki had added a goal in the biggest game of the Premier League season to a pair of assists at Stamford Bridge last week. The maverick with the magical touch has shown a productivity. He has a showman’s trickery but he has also made the second most goals in the top flight. He can be framed as the difference-maker, in part because, in a division dominated by set-pieces, few have his creativity in open play, or his joie de vivre.
And yet when Pep Guardiola was asked if his bargain of a signing should be named player of the year, he scoffed. “Come, come,” he said. “He’s so young.” If Guardiola had a vote, either for the PFA or Football Writers’ Association awards, it is safe to say it would be cast for Bernardo Silva. Not just this season, either, as Silva is his man for all seasons. He is his favourite.
Rodri injury hands Man City huge concern ahead of Premier League run-in
08:30 , Richard Jolly, Senior Football CorrespondentRodri has given Manchester City an injury worry for the title race after limping off in their 2-1 win over Arsenal.
The Ballon d’Or winner has a groin problem, which will be examined on Sunday or Monday, as Pep Guardiola waits to discover the extent of the damage.
Rodri, who was replaced by Nico Gonzalez when he went off in the 88th minute, has found his best form of the season in recent weeks as City have recorded four straight wins in all competitions.
Rodri injury hands Man City huge concern ahead of Premier League run-in
Did Haaland just save Gabriel from a red card?
08:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe incident was checked by VAR, according to the Premier League Match Centre. “The referee’s call of no red card was checked and confirmed by VAR – with the action from Gabriel deemed not to be excessively aggressive or violent.“
With a title race that is this close, however, Gabriel staying on the pitch and avoiding a three-game ban for violent conduct could be crucial. “He can thank Haaland a lot, Gabriel, for not going down and holding his nose,” Gary Neville said on Sky Sports.
Haaland admitted as much after the match, telling Sky Sports that he could have made more out of the contact but chose not to. “If I fell on the floor there, which I will not do unless someone really attacks me, then it would maybe be red card,” Haaland said.
"He's very lucky"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
Should Gabriel have seen red? 🟥 pic.twitter.com/pDjN7OfvFB
Why was Gabriel not sent off for Erling Haaland ‘headbutt’?
07:45 , Jamie BraidwoodManchester City striker Erling Haaland admitted he could have made more out of Gabriel Magalhaes pushing his head towards him, which means the Arsenal centre-back will be available for the Premier League run-in after he avoided a red card in the title showdown.
Haaland and Gabriel were involved in a long-running battle at the Etihad but tensions spilled over in the 83rd minute. It was sparked when Haaland gave Gabriel a push from the side after he had been fouled from behind by the Arsenal defender.
Gabriel reacted by putting his head towards Haaland’s and they stood for a moment with their foreheads touching. But Gabriel then made a another movement and pushed his head towards Haaland’s for a second time.
How Erling Haaland inspired Man City to a massive momentum shift over Arsenal
07:30 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe league table never lies, apparently. It may do now. A supposed title decider ended with the side still in second nevertheless possessing the advantage. It has been Arsenal’s title to lose for months, but perhaps this defeat means it is being lost.
They had retreated down the tunnel at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City went on their lap of honour, a bare-chested Erling Haaland letting his hair run free, Pep Guardiola directing kisses to the crowd, Gianluigi Donnarumma beating the badge on his chest, relieved the biggest error of his season had become a footnote, not the faulty footwork that determined the destination of the trophy.
This, perhaps, was what Arsenal feared. Second best against City in the Carabao Cup final, they will be second behind them on Wednesday, if Guardiola’s team beat Burnley. “It is a new league now,” admitted Mikel Arteta.
How Erling Haaland inspired Man City to a massive momentum shift over Arsenal
Mikel Arteta: 'There is an element of luck'
07:15 , Chris WilsonHere’s what Mikel Arteta has to say to Sky Sports:
"That's exactly that and when you don't do it and they have individual quality to deliver in those moments, you risk losing the game because I don't think there was any difference between the teams."
“There are a few elements. There is an element of luck with whether the ball goes in or not. The second one the ball deflects, it goes to Haaland.
"There is individual quality as well and there is, in that moment, to be so cool, precise and ruthless. You have to be that."
On Arsenal's performance, he explains: "You could see at the end of the game, and right from the beginning, the attitude of the team. We could have been a bit more composed in certain moments but we certainly took the game to where we wanted and we had big chances to win.
"We went very close but not close enough and now we have to accept we lost an opportunity today, a big one, but there are still five games to go. We need to reset and go again because there are a lot of positives to take from the game."
The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control of title race
07:00 , Miguel DelaneyManchester City stood up in the way champions tend to, to set up a sprint to the finish. The great question is again how a deflated Arsenal are going to respond, but the great concern is that they are now in a shoot-out with a team who simply score more. On Wednesday, City can go top by beating doomed Burnley.
That higher quality in attack ultimately told and the game distilled multiple recent trends. While Arsenal’s one goal came from reactive opportunism, City’s two were from attacking incision.
There was Rayan Cherki’s brilliance. There was Gianluigi Donnarumma’s perceptive throw, redeeming himself for the earlier error for Kai Havertz’s goal. There was then Erling Haaland, finally scoring again at the most important time.
The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control of title race
Premier League title race: Do Arsenal or Man City have the easier run-in?
05:00 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Premier League is set up for another thrilling run-in after Manchester City beat Arsenal to set up a fascinating last month of the title race.
The Gunners travelled to the Etihad on Sunday with a six-point lead at the top of the table but that has now been cut to just three points, and with City holding a game in hand Mikel Arteta’s side could see their lead wiped out by Wednesday.
Arsenal are bidding to finally end their 22-year wait for a league title but they could well face a shootout for this season’s trophy, with goal difference potentially deciding the destination of the title.
Premier League title race: Do Arsenal or Man City have the easier run-in?
Why was Gabriel not sent off for Erling Haaland ‘headbutt’?
04:00 , Chris WilsonManchester City striker Erling Haaland admitted he could have made more out of Gabriel Magalhaes pushing his head towards him, which means the Arsenal centre-back will be available for the Premier League run-in after he avoided a red card in the title showdown.
Haaland and Gabriel were involved in a long-running battle at the Etihad but tensions spilled over in the 83rd minute. It was sparked when Haaland gave Gabriel a push from the side after he had been fouled from behind by the Arsenal defender.
Gabriel reacted by putting his head towards Haaland’s and they stood for a moment with their foreheads touching. But Gabriel then made a another movement and pushed his head towards Haaland’s for a second time.
Was this the moment Arsenal could have won the Premier League?
02:00 , Jamie BraidwoodMikel Arteta fell to his knees. In a title race of the finest margins, Kai Havertz’s header in stoppage time was the golden chance Arsenal had to take to keep the title race in their hands. Instead, Havertz headed over the top of the bar to leave Arsenal knowing they could be knocked off top spot for the first time since October on Wednesday night.
It wasn’t the only chance Arsenal had in the second half. In fact, they had two brilliant opportunities when the match was level at 1-1 - which, given how an Arsenal victory could have knocked City out of it, may have been even more critical to the outcome of the title.
In the 62nd minute, a counter-attack saw Martin Odegaard slipping Havertz through on goal with just Gianluigi Donnarumma to beat. But the goalkeeper stood tall and made a redemptive save, given his earlier error. Arsenal had a four-on-two but could not capitalise.
A couple of minutes later, Eberechi Eze hit the inside of the post with a curling shot from the edge of the box, the rebound off the woodwork skirting across the face of goal. That was how close Arsenal came to taking charge of the title race and getting their hands on a first league trophy in 22 years.
Join the Miguel Delaney: Inside Football newsletter – get one month free and go beyond the game with exclusive insights
Monday 20 April 2026 00:00 , Chris WilsonPacked with snippets of behind-the-scenes gossip and updates from Miguel Delaney's reporting trips, members have a backstage pass as he covers the 2025/2026 season, the 2026 World Cup and more...
Join Miguel Delaney: Inside Football and get your first month free
Arsenal water bottles sold outside Etihad ahead of crunch Man City clash
Sunday 19 April 2026 23:00 , Chris WilsonArsenal-themed water bottles were on sale outside the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City fans ramped up the banter ahead of Sunday’s crucial title clash.
City were hoping to move within three points of the Gunners at the top of the table – with a game in hand – with victory over Mikel Arteta’s side.
Supporters quipped Arsenal were “bottling it” after losing to Bournemouth last weekend.
The jibes gathered momentum when a City fan was pictured holding an Arsenal bottle to his lips during their side’s 3-0 win at Chelsea. The image went viral.
Arsenal water bottles sold outside Etihad ahead of crunch Man City clash
Vieira on Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 22:45 , Chris Wilson“I think Arsenal had a good performance but the difference between good teams and great teams, you can see that on the field. Those top players make the difference,” said Patrick Vieira on Sky.
“Arsenal will feel more of the pressure now. I would question the mental strength of the team even more now,” he added.
Neville full of praise for Silva
Sunday 19 April 2026 22:30 , Chris WilsonHere’s some praise for Silva from Gary Neville on Sky:
"It was INCREDIBLE what we saw today"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
Gary Neville praises Bernardo Silva's performance against Arsenal 💪 pic.twitter.com/vSnPt3feTg
WATCH: Silva & Haaland speak at full-time
Sunday 19 April 2026 22:15 , Chris WilsonHere’s the entertaining interview with Silva and Haaland after the final whistle on Sky:
"Erling was was amazing today!"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
Bernardo Silva and Erling Haaland react to their huge victory over Arsenal and where that leaves them in the title race 🤝 pic.twitter.com/jlTiiIkkPs
'Title race not over yet'
Sunday 19 April 2026 22:00 , Chris WilsonThis title race is not over yet, I still feel like there are some more twists and turns to come,” says former Man Utd striker Wayne Rooney on BBC’s Match of the Day.
“It is is obviously going to be tight but City have got one more game to try to win, so I still have Arsenal down as slight favourites.
“I've been in this situation myself, where you need to win all your games for the title. You look at your games and you think well we should win this one, or that one, but it never pans out that way.
“From now until the end of the season it is just going to be down to which team keeps their composure the best - that's who will win it,” he added.
ICYMI: Watch as City wrap up huge win
Sunday 19 April 2026 21:45 , Chris WilsonHere are the scenes at full-time as City secured a potentially pivotal three points:
"A monumental Manchester City win!"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
The SCENES after Man City's huge win over Arsenal 👀 pic.twitter.com/NqxEwQCHpf
WATCH: Cherki & Haaland secure vital City win
Sunday 19 April 2026 21:30 , Chris WilsonHere are the highlights of the two City goals then.
A spectacular run and finish from Rayan Cherki to get the hosts started...
Rayan Cherki doing his thing 🤷♂️ pic.twitter.com/VsOlkpjcnu
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
And an equally accomplished finish from Haaland to secure the three points!
"Manchester City in charge, again!"
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 19, 2026
Erling Haaland powers through to find the back of the net 💪 pic.twitter.com/tt04wbQnaz
Haaland: 'Look at the energy we used'
Sunday 19 April 2026 21:15 , Chris WilsonHere’s what Haaland has to say to Match of the Day:
“Look at the battles, look at the energy we used, look at the atmosphere. It was amazing. Everyone knows how much I enjoyed that. A good win.
“You need to stay focused, know what you want to do. We have a plan, you need to execute and do what you can do to win the game."
“I expected us to have a lot of the ball, I expected them to press us high, they are really good at this."
On what the City dressing room was like before the game, he explains: "We played them a few weeks ago so we knew a bit about what you're going into it. It's at our home and we kind of knew what was going to happen.
“Everyone knew if we lost this game or didn't win this game it kind of would be over so we are still in the race. The locker room before was calm because we knew what we had to do because of the Carabao Cup final and the Chelsea game. We still need to keep building and take it step by step because it's another game on Wednesday,” he added.
Most fans want Man City to beat Arsenal to the title. Why?
Sunday 19 April 2026 21:00 , Miguel DelaneyManchester City have won six of the last eight Premier League titles and have become, for some, the ‘default champions’. But what does it say about the modern game that many neutrals would prefer to see a ‘sportswashing project’ edge out Mikel Arteta’s team in the title race?
Guardiola on key trio
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:45 , Chris WilsonHere’s more from Pep Guardiola on a key trio this afternoon:
On Nico O'Reilly, he explains: "Incredible defensive, offensively and set pieces. What a player he is becoming. Playing different positions. He is exceptional. He had the composure today to take the ball and again arrive in the final third for the second goal.
“What a season! I don't know if he is the best player or the man of the season but the young one? Guys, it has to be."
On Donnarumma: "[Khusanov] has to block better and the aggression of Havertz. But I liked the reaction of his mates, they were there to help him.
"When I see teams when they concede a goal and everyone is complaining, I don't like that."
On Bernardo Silva, he adds: "If you continue to talk about him, I will cry, so be careful. It will be so emotional the moment when he is going to leave. Bernardo is Bernardo. You cannot define him.
"I feel sometimes he has not been seen as a public figure. The stature, he is not fast, he is not strong... but football starts from here [points to his head] and finishes with the feet.
"I feel gratitude for what this guy has done for many, many years."
Guardiola: 'Momentum shifts in one instance'
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:37 , Chris WilsonThere’s more from Guardiola speaking to Sky too:
“If I say the momentum has changed, I would say the momentum for Arsenal is bad when I've seen today them playing like this, how is this bad momentum?
"They're in the semi-finals of the Champions League, didn't lose one game. Momentum shifts in one instance. They know it.
“I have a lot of respect but, of course, we want to win. We fought a lot as well. For many players today, they fought for the first time for the Premier League and they felt the pressure a little bit, performances were not top but that is normal, it's the process."
More from Arteta
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:32 , Chris WilsonOn the Arsenal approach, Arteta adds: "With the ball we had the same [intent] and we generated the situations that we believed we could generate.
"There is even one where Kai [Havertz] is totally free on the halfway to go one-on-one. We are in the level that we are in because this team has taken us there. That's the level you need to be to win it.
"Today there are certainly elements, in front of goal which is the most important one, and big chances - you have to put them away to come away from the Etihad with three points."
On the quality of the match, he adds: "Yes, there was moments but it was a battle as well, and intensity, because you expect that.
"There were big parts of the game that had similarities with the first 28 minutes of the cup final because we had two massive chances to go ahead - and we didn't. That changes the course of the game.
"We take it game by game, we had some very good moments a few days ago in the Champions League against Sporting.
"We are playing so many games, we are the only team that is playing and playing and playing, that's a difference as well.
"But the positive is that today we have seen the level and there are five games to go. We are going to give it a real go.
“We have full belief that we can do it. Today we showed again the team that we are. It's in our hands and it's there for the taking,” he added.
Rodri injury hands Man City huge concern ahead of Premier League run-in
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:27 , Richard JollyRodri has given Manchester City an injury worry for the title race after limping off in their 2-1 win over Arsenal.
The Ballon d’Or winner has a groin problem, which will be examined on Sunday or Monday, as Pep Guardiola waits to discover the extent of the damage.
Rodri, who was replaced by Nico Gonzalez when he went off in the 88th minute, has found his best form of the season in recent weeks as City have recorded four straight wins in all competitions.
Rodri injury hands Man City huge concern ahead of Premier League run-in
Arteta: 'There is an element of luck'
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:25 , Chris WilsonHere’s what Mikel Arteta has to say to Sky Sports:
"That's exactly that and when you don't do it and they have individual quality to deliver in those moments, you risk losing the game because I don't think there was any difference between the teams."
“There are a few elements. There is an element of luck with whether the ball goes in or not. The second one the ball deflects, it goes to Haaland.
"There is individual quality as well and there is, in that moment, to be so cool, precise and ruthless. You have to be that."
On Arsenal's performance, he explains: "You could see at the end of the game, and right from the beginning, the attitude of the team. We could have been a bit more composed in certain moments but we certainly took the game to where we wanted and we had big chances to win.
"We went very close but not close enough and now we have to accept we lost an opportunity today, a big one, but there are still five games to go. We need to reset and go again because there are a lot of positives to take from the game."
Premier League title race: Do Arsenal or Man City have the easier run-in?
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:15 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Premier League is set up for another thrilling run-in after Manchester City beat Arsenal to set up a fascinating last month of the title race.
The Gunners travelled to the Etihad on Sunday with a six-point lead at the top of the table but that has now been cut to just three points, and with City holding a game in hand Mikel Arteta’s side could see their lead wiped out by Wednesday.
Arsenal are bidding to finally end their 22-year wait for a league title but they could well face a shootout for this season’s trophy, with goal difference potentially deciding the destination of the title.
Premier League title race: Do Arsenal or Man City have the easier run-in?
Why was Gabriel not sent off for Erling Haaland ‘headbutt’?
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:07 , Jamie BraidwoodManchester City striker Erling Haaland admitted he could have made more out of Gabriel Magalhaes pushing his head towards him, which means the Arsenal centre-back will be available for the Premier League run-in after he avoided a red card in the title showdown.
Haaland and Gabriel were involved in a long-running battle at the Etihad but tensions spilled over in the 83rd minute. It was sparked when Haaland gave Gabriel a push from the side after he had been fouled from behind by the Arsenal defender.
Gabriel reacted by putting his head towards Haaland’s and they stood for a moment with their foreheads touching. But Gabriel then made a another movement and pushed his head towards Haaland’s for a second time.
How Erling Haaland inspired Man City to a massive momentum shift over Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 20:00 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe league table never lies, apparently. It may do now. A supposed title decider ended with the side still in second nevertheless possessing the advantage. It has been Arsenal’s title to lose for months, but perhaps this defeat means it is being lost.
They had retreated down the tunnel at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City went on their lap of honour, a bare-chested Erling Haaland letting his hair run free, Pep Guardiola directing kisses to the crowd, Gianluigi Donnarumma beating the badge on his chest, relieved the biggest error of his season had become a footnote, not the faulty footwork that determined the destination of the trophy.
This, perhaps, was what Arsenal feared. Second best against City in the Carabao Cup final, they will be second behind them on Wednesday, if Guardiola’s team beat Burnley. “It is a new league now,” admitted Mikel Arteta.
How Erling Haaland inspired Man City to a massive momentum shift over Arsenal
“Maybe they played more direct than at Wembley,” says Guardiola on the differences in Arsenal from the cup final.
“Gyokeres is also strong and, especially the second balls, they are so good,” he adds on whether Havertz is better at holding up the ball.
“It’s good delivery from Raya. But we know the speed that they have and the set pieces. When we concede a lot of corners, free-kicks and they are top.
“They had four or five strikers and Gabriel at the end, and good delivery as well.
“Sometimes it is difficult to control because we are tired. At the end I’m happy because we can extend the hope and, maybe until the end, we will try,” he added.
Guardiola: 'It was a good advert for the Premier League'
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:45 , Chris Wilson“It was a good advert for the Premier League,” says Pep Guardiola on Sky.
“They don't allow you to go through the process, they're so aggressive. They are good in the duels and one of the most competitive teams I ever faced in my career in terms of duels and one against one, long balls with Havertz and Rice, second balls - fantastic.
"We had momentum, they had momentum, we had chances, they had chances. At the end in these type of games, it is little margins,” he explained.
On the quality of the game, he added: "Absolutely, both teams are good - really top managers! And really top players for both sides.
“I've been so demanding but the reality is, it's just one game. They are top of the league with one goal difference [better than City].
“We have to enjoy it, celebrate it, take the good things but don't lose the focus. The focus is in three days, we go to Burnley."
Here’s Mikel Arteta speaking to Match of the Day:
“At the end it's the result we came to conquer. We did a lot of things right to take the game where we wanted. We had the best chances in the game but we didn't put them away and that's the reality,” he explains.
On whether the belief is still there, he says: “100%. I said to the boys we have to look in the mirror and the team we played in the moment, the history they have, to come back from a goal down. There's a lot of things to take. The difference was in both boxes that's for sure."
“Every game is a different approach. Need to evaluate the state of the team. We are missing some big big players. We need them back as soon as possible because we need to be stronger and better.
"The Premier League starts again almost. They have a game in hand, we are three points ahead, five games to play so game on,” he added as he finished.
Keane on Gabriel & Haaland
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:34 , Chris Wilson“I enjoyed that battle [between Haaland and Gabriel]. The ref let them get on with it. It's part of the game, the physicality,” says Roy Keane on Sky.
“City do seem to peak at the right time. What I like about this City group and Pep is the hunger, they want to win,” he added.
The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control of title race
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:30 , Miguel DelaneyManchester City stood up in the way champions tend to, to set up a sprint to the finish. The great question is again how a deflated Arsenal are going to respond, but the great concern is that they are now in a shoot-out with a team who simply score more. On Wednesday, City can go top by beating doomed Burnley.
That higher quality in attack ultimately told and the game distilled multiple recent trends. While Arsenal’s one goal came from reactive opportunism, City’s two were from attacking incision.
There was Rayan Cherki’s brilliance. There was Gianluigi Donnarumma’s perceptive throw, redeeming himself for the earlier error for Kai Havertz’s goal. There was then Erling Haaland, finally scoring again at the most important time.
The two major problems facing Arsenal after Man City take control of title race
More from Odegaard
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:25 , Chris WilsonHere’s more from Odegaard:
”The high press was really good. Looked dangerous. Sometimes you end up deep but I thought we did really well apart from the goals. Maybe lacked a bit of composure on the ball sometimes. Overall a decent performance. We've got to learn from that and move onto next game."
On his fitness, he explains: “It was a tight call but I felt OK in the game. Bit tired in end but good to be back and hopefully I can be back with the team until the end."
“There's always that, always pressure always noise. That's part of being a football player at this level. We'll keep going, stay focused and look forward to the next game and move on. You have to live with that."
“Of course,” he says when asked whether he still believes Arsenal can win the title.
Odegaard: 'That's football at this level'
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:20 , Chris WilsonArsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard was speaking to Sky Sports, and here’s what he has to say:
“Disappointed not to win. Obviously we wanted to get a result and we were really up for it today. We played a good game, we pressed really well.
“Especially in the second half we looked dangerous, big moments in front of goal. Small margins to decide a game like this and we weren't sharp enough in front of goal and that's why we go home with nothing.
“That's football at this level. It was always going to be like that. Very intense, very tough. Small margins. Frustrating but a lot of good things in the game from us. Now it's about looking forward to the next game to bounce back."
How the run-in looks
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:15 , Chris WilsonHere’s a look at the remaining fixtures for both sides:
Arsenal: Newcastle (h), Fulham (h), West Ham (a), Burnley (h), Crystal Palace (a)
Man City: Burnley (a), Everton (a), Brentford (h), Bournemouth (a), Crystal Palace (h - date to be confirmed), Aston Villa (h)
More from Haaland
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:10 , Chris WilsonHere’s more from Erling Haaland:
On the title race, he explains: "I think every game is a final. On Wednesday we have a new final. When we are done speaking here, it's about recovering and preparing for Burnley. That is as important as this one and Chelsea before."
On whether Gabriel should have been sent off: "I think if I fell on the floor, which I will not do unless someone really attacks me, it will maybe be a red card. I'm not sure. But it is what it is, I will not fall on the floor.
"Yellow card for me, I'm not sure why, he comes up to my face. But it is what it is,” he adds.
Haaland: 'It was a great moment'
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:06 , Chris WilsonCity striker Erling Haaland says he “was quite happy, to be honest. It was a great moment for me and a great win."
“I think it's always like this, a lot of fighting and things like this. It's up to others to decide if I won that battle or not. I scored the goal so I won the battle in that moment, it was a great goal, it was a decisive moment and we win."
On Bernardo Silva, he explains: “I remember that cross, when he headed it out, I told him he was like Cannavaro today. I'm not going to make it emotional but Bernie, you were really good as usual."
Silva: 'It’s a long season'
Sunday 19 April 2026 19:01 , Chris WilsonHere’s more from Bernardo Silva:
“It’s a long season. A lot of small details didn’t go our way this season. Also unlucky plays, we missed a lot of chances. A lot of games we should have won. Today things went our way. I’m really happy.
On whether it feels emotional because it’s his last season with the club, he adds: “I made the decision a long time ago so its been emotional all season because I knew my decision. I just want to finish on a good end with trophies. I am doing my best for this club until the end.”
Silva: 'Small details make the difference'
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:57 , Chris WilsonBernardo Silva says the result is “very big because it puts us in a position if we win our game in hand we're on the same points”,
“Two weeks ago this didn't look very likely, this scenario. I'm happy we can be on the same points."
On Erling Haaland, he adds: "Erling was fantastic today fighting for every ball. It's not easy against two tough centre-backs. Today he fought like an animal."
“We were very good until we made the mistake and it changed the mood after the 30th minute. Second half was tough because it looked like we were in control of the game bt always felt they were v dang. two big chances in a rown. These big games are like this. Small details make the difference. But overall we played a good game. I'm really proud."
Man City v Arsenal: Did Haaland just save Gabriel from a red card? Was this the moment the Gunners lost the title?
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:54 , Chris WilsonManchester City defeated Arsenal to take control of the Premier League title race following an enthralling showdown at the Etihad.
Erling Haaland scored the winner in the 65th minute to settle a thrilling contest after the Gunners went agonisingly close to taking the lead.
Eberechi Eze struck the inside of the post just a couple of minutes before Haaland held off Gabriel to volley City into the lead.
Did Haaland save Gabriel from a red card? Was this the moment Arsenal lost the title?
'Momentum with City'
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:51 , Chris Wilson“Momentum is with Manchester City,” says Roy Keane on Sky at full-time.
“They've been the best team for eight or nine games. These players can deal with pressure.
“Arsenal have to regroup, they had good chances but didn't take them,” he added.
Erling Haaland shoots down Arsenal as Manchester City slash lead to three points
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:48 , Chris WilsonErling Haaland struck a vital winner as Manchester City slashed Arsenal’s Premier League lead to three points with a 2-1 victory over the Gunners at the Etihad Stadium.
The Norwegian pounced after 65 minutes of a compelling clash on Sunday, sparing Gianluigi Donnarumma’s blushes after the goalkeeper had gifted Kai Havertz an equaliser following Rayan Cherki’s opener.
It was Arsenal’s second successive defeat and City, with a game in hand, clearly have the momentum as they bid to overhaul the long-time leaders and claim a seventh title in nine years.
Arsenal, seeking their first league crown since 2004, still have the advantage of points on the board but the loss was undoubtedly a bitter blow.
Erling Haaland shoots down Arsenal as Manchester City slash lead to three points
Premier League table update
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:44 , Chris WilsonHere’s how the Premier League table looks at the top then:
1 - Arsenal - 70pts, GD+ 37 (33 played)
2 - Man City - 67pts, GD +36 (32 played)
Premier League results
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:41 , Chris WilsonHere’s the full list of Premier League results for the weekend then (with the final game of the game-week seeing Crystal Palace face West Ham tomorrow night):
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Up next
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:37 , Chris WilsonCity don’t have to wait long for their next game, with Guardiola’s side in action away to Burnley on Wednesday, 22 April. The Cityzens then have an FA Cup semi-final to contest against Southampton on 25 April at Wembley.
As for Arsenal, their next game is another potential stumbling block, with the Gunners at home to Newcastle this Saturday in a 5.30pm kick-off.
FULL-TIME! Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:34 , Chris Wilson
'Huge win for City'
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:31 , Chris WilsonThe full-time thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s been in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“Manchester City players in a hug, Arsenal's down on their knees. The reactions of the two teams tell a story. Huge win for City.”
FULL-TIME! Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:29 , Chris WilsonThat result puts City three points behind Arsenal, though Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand. That comes against Crystal Palace, though the date for that is not yet certain.
Nevertheless, City could go top of the Premier League with a win over Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday.
FULL-TIME! Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:27 , Chris WilsonThat’s it! The final whistle goes and City have a pivotal win. The title race is lit up at the Etihad!
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:26 , Chris Wilson90 +7 mins
Into what must be the final seconds now. We might have a little extra additonal time.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:26 , Chris Wilson90 +6 mins
Is there time for a final chance for Arsenal? They’ve won a throw on the right wing...
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:25 , Chris Wilson90 +6 mins
Nathan Ake has replaced Semenyo as City look to close out the game. 90 seconds left!
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:24 , Chris Wilson90 +5 mins
CLOSE! A great chance for Arsenal as Trossard swing in a peach of a cross and Havertz meets it 10 yards out.
He directs it goalwards but it’s narrowly over!
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:23 , Chris Wilson90 +4 mins
Arsenal are pressing for an equaliser late on and City seem to have settled in to defend and protect the lead.
Odegaard clips a ball to the back post but Nunes does well to head behind for a corner.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:21 , Chris Wilson90 +2 mins
A risky challenge on the right from Nunes as he collides with Hincapie near the edge of the box, but it’s waved away. It was outside the area anyway.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:20 , Chris Wilson90 mins
Into the first of SEVEN added minutes as Martinelli loses out to O’Reilly for a goal kick.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:19 , Chris Wilson89 mins
City are managing it fairly well at the moment, and Arsenal have bee restricted to hoofing it hopefully forward for the last couple of minutes.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:17 , Chris Wilson87 mins
Rodri is down at the moment after going to ground off the ball. He seems to be holding his groin but he’s back on his feet.
Doku has come off for Savinho, and now the Spaniard makes way for Nico Gonzalez.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:14 , Chris Wilson85 mins
Sub for City as Cherki makes way for Phil Foden. Viktor Gyokers comes on for Zubimendi for the Gunners.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:12 , Chris Wilson83 mins
Frustration from Arsenal as Gabriel fouls Haaland. The two then briefly clash and Gabriel pushes his head towards the City man!
He’s lucky to avoid a red there as both players re yellow carded!
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:11 , Chris Wilson82 mins
City are just trying to frustrate Arsenal with the ball in the corner at the moment, and it’s worked for now as Trossard concedes a throw.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:09 , Chris Wilson80 mins
Another Arsenal attack breaks down for offside. Arsenal will feel they can work at least one more big chance but hope is starting to fade!
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:07 , Chris Wilson77 mins
City have just kept Arsenal at arm’s length and they’re frustrating the Gunners for now.
Arsenal think they have a decent chance on the counter but Silva tracks back well to win the ball off Havertz, who is eventually penalised for handball.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:03 , Chris Wilson74 mins
The next group of subs for Arsenal as Ben White and Leandro Trossard come on for Eze and Mosquera.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:02 , Chris Wilson73 mins
OFF THE POST! A great chance for Arsenal!
Odegaard clips the ball towards Gabriel at the back post and the defender heads it goalwards.
It deflects off O’Reilly and comes back off the near post, and Arsenal settle for a throw-in.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 18:01 , Chris Wilson72 mins
City really feel in control now, unsurprisingly. It feels difficult for Arsenal right now, and there’s a huge 20 minutes ahead.
The Gunners break and Hincapie wins a free-kick midway into the City half.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:59 , Chris Wilson70 mins
The first corner is headed behind, before Doku scuffs wide from the second.
Arsenal are preparing subs as we speak.
Man City 2-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:58 , Chris Wilson68 mins
City have the wind in their sails now as the game is briefly stopped for Haaland to change his shirt after it’s ripped by Gabriel.
Rodri tries his luck from the edge of the area but it’s deflected behind for a corner.
'Blimey O'Reilly'
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:56 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe latest thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“Blimey O'Reilly, yet again. Another key contribution from Nico O'Reilly while Gianluigi Donnarumma got his distribution right to start the move. Although, of course, Erling Haaland finished it.”
GOAL! Man City 2-1 Arsenal (Haaland, 65')
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:55 , Chris Wilson65 mins
GOAL! Erling Haaland has put City ahead!
It’s another well-worked goal, with Donnarumma spotting O’Reilly in space before the defender slips it wide to Doku.
The Belgian drives into the box and returns the ball to O’Reilly, who squares a pass across the box to Haaland for the striker to sweep it past Raya!
'It could have been a goal to go down in Arsenal folklore'
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:52 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe latest thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“It is tempting to wonder about each moment and the possible connotations. Either Havertz or Eze might have scored within a couple of minutes and, in each case, it could have been a goal to go down in Arsenal folklore. Donnarumma and the post have kept this level. For now, anyway.”
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:51 , Chris Wilson61 mins
OFF THE POST!
Arsenal briefly think they’re ahead as Eze looks to curl one from distance, but it bounces off the inside of the post and rolls away from danger!
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:50 , Chris Wilson60 mins
SAVE! This is a vital moment from Donnarumma!
The ball falls to Rice from a clearance and suddenly the space has opened up for Arsenal!
It’s a 4-v-2 for the Gunners as it’s slipped to Odegaard, who then ships it on to Havertz in the box.
He’s clean through but Donnarumma is off his line well to close him down and make the save.
'This feels a key spell'
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:48 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe latest thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“City have been very good in second halves of late - particularly the start of the second half - against Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea. This feels a key spell.”
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:47 , Chris Wilson58 mins
Another City corner as Nunes’ cross is deflected behind. The hosts are beginning to turn the screw again.
The ball in isn’t great this time. Silva tries to test Raya but ends up hitting it onto the roof of the net.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:45 , Chris Wilson56 mins
Kai Havertz has been irritated by a few poor passes from his teammates and rightly so, as Odegaard’s ball forward is the latest to be cut out.
City have started the half as the better of the two sides but the Gunners have looked a little threatening on the counter.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:43 , Chris Wilson54 mins
Havertz wants a free-kick and potential red card as he is played through but shepherded off the ball by Khusanov.
In the end he was too weak in the challenge and it’s clever defending from the City man.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:41 , Chris Wilson52 mins
Half a chance for Doku now as Eze loses the ball near his own box and the loose ball falls to the Belgian. He has space for the shot but hits it straight at Raya.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:40 , Chris Wilson50 mins
A great run from Semenyo and he’s nearly put clean through with the ball over the top but his touch lets him down and Raya collects.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:38 , Chris Wilson48 mins
OFF THE POST! A good chance for Haaland as Raya swats away the corner but the rebound eventually falls to the Norwegian a few yards out.
The angle is tight though and he can only rifle an effort against the frame of the goal!
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:37 , Chris Wilson47 mins
The first foray forward for City as Semenyo gets away down the right and wins a corner.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:35 , Richard JollyThe latest thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“On comes Gabriel Martinelli, whose goal against City at the Etihad in September could be the most important of the title race.”
KICK-OFF! Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:34 , Chris WilsonBack underway at the Etihad! Let’s hope for an equally as entertaining second half.
Arsenal have made the first change of the day, with Gabriel Martinelli coming on for Madueke.
HALF-TIME! Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:30 , Chris WilsonIt’s been an interesting first half at the Etihad, with quality and madness in equal measure after Rayan Cherki’s brilliant goal opened the scoring before Donnarumma’s error let Arsenal back into it.
Both sides have had half-chances since but it’s City who have been the better of the two sides, even if Arsenal will be more than happy with how this is going.
Nevertheless, you do get the sense that Arsenal will need another goal, so it’s all set up for a gripping second half in Manchester.
HALF-TIME! Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:27 , Chris Wilson
'So far so good for Arsenal'
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:23 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe half-time thoughts of Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“So far so good for Arsenal, who would settle for this scoreline at full-time. They have been more positive than might have been expected and if their goal came from high pressing rather than creativity, it at least showed a proactive approach.
“For City, there is the danger that Donnarumma's blunder deciders the title race.
HALF-TIME! Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:19 , Chris WilsonThe referee blows the whistle and both sides head in level after a fascinating first half.
It’s not been the hgihest quality game at the Etihad but there’s plenty of intrigue as both sides head in level at the break.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:18 , Chris Wilson45 mins
A promising break for Madueke but he’s a little isolated and he ends up losing out in the box before Arsenal concede a free-kick.
We’ll have just one minute of added time.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:16 , Chris Wilson43 mins
The first corner is headed clear but City come again and Semenyo wins another.
Silva swings it in and it’s a great delivery but Saliba heads it almost off the line at the back post!
However, the ref has given a free-kick for a foul on an Arsenal player.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:14 , Chris Wilson41 mins
A lovely counter from City as Rodri wins it high and slips it to Cherki.
The Frenchman drives into the box and lays it off to Semenyo, but Hincapie slides in to produce a brilliant block.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:12 , Richard Jolly at the EtihadThe latest thoughts from Richard Jolly, who’s in place at the Etihad this afternoon:
“City are bringing everyone back for Arsenal corners, but that allows Arteta to send all of his giant back four forward. It is notable that Arsenal have the taller team today and players like Bernardo Silva and Rayan Cherki stand out for their lesser height.”
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:10 , Chris Wilson37 mins
A vital interception from Rice as he prevents the pass into Haaland’s feet near the edge of the box.
City work the ball wide again but Semenyo’s through ball has too much on it.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:08 , Chris Wilson35 mins
City are happy to let Arsenal have it in certain areas, with the Gunners fairly pedestrian when they have the ball in their half. City are closing down the passing lanes and Arsenal aren’t taking the risks with the ball at their feet.
Mosquera is the first booking of the day as he pulls back Doku.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:05 , Chris Wilson32 mins
Good tracking back from Rice as he gets back to clear after Silva had latched onto the through ball into the box. Another City corner, and the hosts are just starting to turn the screw again as Guehi heads at Raya from Khusanov’s cross.
Man City 1-1 Arsenal
Sunday 19 April 2026 17:03 , Chris Wilson29 mins
Another brief moment of worry for the hosts as Arsenal press high, though madueke can’t make anything of the chance as his cross deflects back off him for a goal kick.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
